Ultime notizie per Palo Alto Networks (NASDAQ:PANW) Azioni

Palo Alto Networks

Palo Alto Networks is a platform-based cybersecurity vendor with product offerings covering network security, cloud security, and security operations. The California-based firm has more than 80,000 enterprise customers across the world, including more than three fourths of the Global 2000.

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Jim Cramer si dice deluso per aver scelto GE HealthCare come la peggiore delle tre azioni. Ecco che cosa è successo.

Jim Cramer desolato: ha comprato la &#34;peggiore delle tre&#34;

MSCI

Jim Cramer elogia un titolo tecnologico come &#34;eccezionale&#34;: scopri perché Palo Alto Networks è al centro delle sue attenzioni.

Jim Cramer definisce questo titolo tecnologico &#34;eccezionale&#34;

Palo Alto Networks Inc

<p>Palo Alto Networks (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PANW#NASDAQ">PANW</a>) has outperformed the market over the past 10 years by 14.83% on an annualized basis producing an average annual return of 26.22%. Currently, Palo Alto Networks has a market capitalization of $108.90 billion. </p>
<p><strong>Buying $100 In PANW:</strong> If an investor had bought $100 of PANW stock 10 years ago, it would be worth <strong>$1,055.93</strong> today based on a price of $334.98 for PANW at the time of writing.</p>
<h3>Palo Alto Networks's Performance Over Last 10 Years</h3>
<p><img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1727469059_0.png" alt="comp_fig" /></p>
<p>Finally -- what's the point of all this? The key insight to take from this article is to note how much of a difference compounded returns can make in your cash growth over a period of time.</p>
<p><em>This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.</em></p>


If You Invested $100 In This Stock 10 Years Ago, You Would Have $1,100 Today

<p>On CNBC's &#8220;<a href="https://www.cnbc.com/video/2024/09/26/final-trades-palo-alto-networks-delta-air-lines-paypal-and-the-xlv.html">Halftime Report Final Trades</a>,&#8221; <strong>Brenda Vingiello</strong> of Sand Hill Global Advisors said <strong>Palo Alto Networks, Inc.</strong> (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PANW#NASDAQ">PANW</a>) continues to gain market share in <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/PANW/earnings">the cybersecurity space</a>.</p>
<p>On Aug. 19, Palo Alto Networks reported better-than-expected results for its fourth quarter and issued strong guidance. Palo Alto's board authorized an additional $500 million for share repurchases, bringing the company's remaining buyback authorization up to $1 billion.</p>
<p><strong>Jim Lebenthal</strong> of Cerity Partners named <strong>Delta Air Lines, Inc.</strong> (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/DAL#NYSE">DAL</a>) as his final trade.</p>
<p><strong>Southwest Airlines Co</strong> (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LUV#NYSE">LUV</a>) recently introduced a new $2.5 billion share repurchase program. Southwest&#8217;s repurchase plan, alongside its enhanced growth projections and cost-saving initiatives, signals broader optimism for the airline industry&#8217;s recovery and profitability. Delta, as one of the leading carriers in the U.S., could see increased investor interest as competitors like Southwest aim for financial efficiency and stronger earnings growth. Delta Air Lines is scheduled to hold a live conference call and webcast to discuss its September quarter financial <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/09/41051475/why-delta-air-lines-shares-are-rising">results on Thursday, Oct. 10</a>.</p>
<p><em>Don't forget to check out our <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premarket/">premarket coverage here</a></em></p>
<p><strong>Liz Young Thomas</strong> of SoFi picked <strong>The Health Care Select Sector SPDR Fund</strong> (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/XLV#NYSE">XLV</a>).</p>
<p><strong>Joshua Brown</strong> of Ritholtz Wealth Management said <strong>PayPal Holdings, Inc.</strong> (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PYPL#NASDAQ">PYPL</a>) continues to break out.</p>
<p>PayPal Holdings recently unveiled its plan to extend cryptocurrency services to U.S. business account holders, with the exception of New York State. As per a press release issued on Tuesday, the latest move would enable U.S. merchants to buy, sell, and hold cryptocurrency directly from <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/cryptocurrency/24/09/41038635/paypal-steps-up-crypto-game-allows-us-merchants-to-buy-sell-and-hold-digital-assets">their business accounts</a>.</p>
<p><strong>Price Action:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Palo Alto fell 0.5% to close at $338.73 during Thursday's session.</li>
<li>Delta Air shares gained 6.3% to settle at $51.81 on Thursday.</li>
<li>The Health Care Select Sector SPDR Fund gained 0.3% during Thursday's session.</li>
<li>PayPal shares gained 3.5% to close at $80.08 on Thursday.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Check This Out: </strong></p>
<ul>
<li><strong><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/24/09/41054730/top-3-tech-stocks-that-are-ticking-portfolio-bombs">Top 3 Tech Stocks That Are Ticking Portfolio Bombs</a></strong></li>
</ul>
<p><em>Image: Shutterstock</em></p>


PYPL

Palo Alto, Delta Air, PayPal And More On CNBC's 'Final Trades'

Analyst Ratings

CNBC Halftime Report Final Trades: Palo Alto Networks, Delta Air Lines, PayPal Holdings, SPDR Select Sector Fund - Health Care

<p>Investors with a lot of money to spend have taken a bullish stance on <strong>Palo Alto Networks</strong> (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PANW#NASDAQ">PANW</a>).</p>
<p>And retail traders should know.</p>
<p>We noticed this today when the trades showed up on publicly available options history that we track here at Benzinga.</p>
<p>Whether these are institutions or just wealthy individuals, we don't know. But when something this big happens with PANW, it often means somebody knows something is about to happen.</p>
<p>So how do we know what these investors just did? </p>
<p>Today, <a href="https://pro.benzinga.com/?utm_source=insights">Benzinga</a>'s options scanner spotted 11 uncommon options trades for Palo Alto Networks.</p>
<p>This isn't normal.</p>
<p>The overall sentiment of these big-money traders is split between 54% bullish and 27%, bearish.</p>
<p>Out of all of the special options we uncovered, 5 are puts, for a total amount of $245,010, and 6 are calls, for a total amount of $335,426.</p>
<h3>Expected Price Movements</h3>
<p>Taking into account the Volume and Open Interest on these contracts, it appears that whales have been targeting a price range from $300.0 to $500.0 for Palo Alto Networks over the last 3 months. </p>
<h3>Volume &amp; Open Interest Development</h3>
<p>Looking at the volume and open interest is an insightful way to conduct due diligence on a stock.</p>
<p>This data can help you track the liquidity and interest for Palo Alto Networks's options for a given strike price.</p>
<p>Below, we can observe the evolution of the volume and open interest of calls and puts, respectively, for all of Palo Alto Networks's whale activity within a strike price range from $300.0 to $500.0 in the last 30 days. </p>
<h3>Palo Alto Networks Option Volume And Open Interest Over Last 30 Days</h3>
<p><img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1727276449_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" /></p>
<h3>Largest Options Trades Observed:</h3>
<p>
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th><strong>Symbol</strong></th>
<th><strong>PUT/CALL</strong></th>
<th><strong>Trade Type</strong></th>
<th><strong>Sentiment</strong></th>
<th><strong>Exp. Date</strong></th>
<th><strong>Ask</strong></th>
<th><strong>Bid</strong></th>
<th><strong>Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Strike Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Total Trade Price</strong></th>
<th style="text-align: right;"><strong>Open Interest</strong></th>
<th style="text-align: right;"><strong>Volume</strong></th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>PANW</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>11/15/24</td>
<td>$48.2</td>
<td>$47.5</td>
<td>$47.5</td>
<td>$300.00</td>
<td>$95.0K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">484</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">21</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>PANW</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$76.45</td>
<td>$75.25</td>
<td>$75.65</td>
<td>$320.00</td>
<td>$83.2K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">291</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">12</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>PANW</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>11/15/24</td>
<td>$27.95</td>
<td>$27.75</td>
<td>$27.75</td>
<td>$360.00</td>
<td>$83.2K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">355</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">30</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>PANW</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>11/15/24</td>
<td>$5.1</td>
<td>$4.85</td>
<td>$5.0</td>
<td>$380.00</td>
<td>$75.0K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">619</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">202</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>PANW</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$162.85</td>
<td>$157.95</td>
<td>$162.08</td>
<td>$500.00</td>
<td>$48.6K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">6</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</p>
<h3>About Palo Alto Networks</h3>
<p>Palo Alto Networks is a platform-based cybersecurity vendor with product offerings covering network security, cloud security, and security operations. The California-based firm has more than 80,000 enterprise customers across the world, including more than three fourths of the Global 2000.</p>
<p>Following our analysis of the options activities associated with Palo Alto Networks, we pivot to a closer look at the company's own performance.</p>
<h3>Current Position of Palo Alto Networks</h3>
<ul>
<li>With a trading volume of 351,834, the price of PANW is down by -0.87%, reaching $340.53.</li>
<li>Current RSI values indicate that the stock is is currently neutral between overbought and oversold.</li>
<li>Next earnings report is scheduled for 49 days from now.</li>
</ul>
<h3>What Analysts Are Saying About Palo Alto Networks</h3>
<p>A total of 1 professional analysts have given their take on this stock in the last 30 days, setting an average price target of $420.0.</p>
<p><strong>Turn $1000 into $1270 in just 20 days?</strong></p>
<p>20-year pro options trader reveals his one-line chart technique that shows when to buy and sell. Copy his trades, which have had averaged a 27% profit every 20 days. <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/premium/ideas/options-moneyline-2/?t=Moop1arja3be22op14&amp;utm_source=benzinga-insights"><strong>Click here for access</strong></a>.<br />
&#x2A; Consistent in their evaluation, an analyst from Susquehanna keeps a Positive rating on Palo Alto Networks with a target price of $420. </p>
<p>Options are a riskier asset compared to just trading the stock, but they have higher profit potential. Serious options traders manage this risk by educating themselves daily, scaling in and out of trades, following more than one indicator, and following the markets closely.</p>
<p>If you want to stay updated on the latest options trades for Palo Alto Networks, <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a> gives you real-time options trades alerts.</p>


Options

Palo Alto Networks Unusual Options Activity

<p>Financial giants have made a conspicuous bullish move on Palo Alto Networks. Our analysis of options history for Palo Alto Networks (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PANW#NASDAQ">PANW</a>) revealed 25 unusual trades.</p>
<p>Delving into the details, we found 40% of traders were bullish, while 40% showed bearish tendencies. Out of all the trades we spotted, 11 were puts, with a value of $572,389, and 14 were calls, valued at $645,040.</p>
<h3>Predicted Price Range</h3>
<p>Based on the trading activity, it appears that the significant investors are aiming for a price territory stretching from $250.0 to $370.0 for Palo Alto Networks over the recent three months. </p>
<h3>Volume &amp; Open Interest Development</h3>
<p>Looking at the volume and open interest is a powerful move while trading options. This data can help you track the liquidity and interest for Palo Alto Networks's options for a given strike price. Below, we can observe the evolution of the volume and open interest of calls and puts, respectively, for all of Palo Alto Networks's whale trades within a strike price range from $250.0 to $370.0 in the last 30 days. </p>
<h3>Palo Alto Networks Call and Put Volume: 30-Day Overview</h3>
<p><img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1726673613_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" /></p>
<h3>Biggest Options Spotted:</h3>
<p>
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th><strong>Symbol</strong></th>
<th><strong>PUT/CALL</strong></th>
<th><strong>Trade Type</strong></th>
<th><strong>Sentiment</strong></th>
<th><strong>Exp. Date</strong></th>
<th><strong>Ask</strong></th>
<th><strong>Bid</strong></th>
<th><strong>Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Strike Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Total Trade Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Open Interest</strong></th>
<th style="text-align: right;"><strong>Volume</strong></th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>PANW</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>03/21/25</td>
<td>$11.0</td>
<td>$11.0</td>
<td>$11.0</td>
<td>$280.00</td>
<td>$110.0K</td>
<td>182</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>PANW</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>12/18/26</td>
<td>$79.35</td>
<td>$65.3</td>
<td>$73.3</td>
<td>$370.00</td>
<td>$102.6K</td>
<td>49</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">14</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>PANW</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$17.15</td>
<td>$16.85</td>
<td>$17.15</td>
<td>$370.00</td>
<td>$85.7K</td>
<td>1.3K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">50</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>PANW</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>10/18/24</td>
<td>$15.45</td>
<td>$15.1</td>
<td>$15.25</td>
<td>$340.00</td>
<td>$82.3K</td>
<td>952</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">66</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>PANW</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>10/18/24</td>
<td>$14.75</td>
<td>$14.65</td>
<td>$14.75</td>
<td>$340.00</td>
<td>$72.2K</td>
<td>952</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">122</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</p>
<h3>About Palo Alto Networks</h3>
<p>Palo Alto Networks is a platform-based cybersecurity vendor with product offerings covering network security, cloud security, and security operations. The California-based firm has more than 80,000 enterprise customers across the world, including more than three fourths of the Global 2000.</p>
<p>Having examined the options trading patterns of Palo Alto Networks, our attention now turns directly to the company. This shift allows us to delve into its present market position and performance</p>
<h3>Where Is Palo Alto Networks Standing Right Now?</h3>
<ul>
<li>Currently trading with a volume of 740,487, the PANW's price is down by -2.02%, now at $331.1. </li>
<li>RSI readings suggest the stock is currently may be approaching oversold.</li>
<li>Anticipated earnings release is in 56 days.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Expert Opinions on Palo Alto Networks</h3>
<p>In the last month, 5 experts released ratings on this stock with an average target price of $386.8.</p>
<ul>
<li>An analyst from BMO Capital has decided to maintain their Outperform rating on Palo Alto Networks, which currently sits at a price target of $390. </li>
<li>An analyst from Cantor Fitzgerald has decided to maintain their Overweight rating on Palo Alto Networks, which currently sits at a price target of $400. </li>
<li>An analyst from Deutsche Bank has decided to maintain their Buy rating on Palo Alto Networks, which currently sits at a price target of $395. </li>
<li>An analyst from Northland Capital Markets has decided to maintain their Market Perform rating on Palo Alto Networks, which currently sits at a price target of $350. </li>
<li>An analyst from Bernstein has decided to maintain their Outperform rating on Palo Alto Networks, which currently sits at a price target of $399. </li>
</ul>
<p>Trading options involves greater risks but also offers the potential for higher profits. Savvy traders mitigate these risks through ongoing education, strategic trade adjustments, utilizing various indicators, and staying attuned to market dynamics. Keep up with the latest options trades for Palo Alto Networks with <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a> for real-time alerts.</p>


Palo Alto Networks Options Trading: A Deep Dive into Market Sentiment

<p>Deep-pocketed investors have adopted a bearish approach towards Palo Alto Networks (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PANW#NASDAQ">PANW</a>), and it's something market players shouldn't ignore. Our tracking of public options records at Benzinga unveiled this significant move today. The identity of these investors remains unknown, but such a substantial move in PANW usually suggests something big is about to happen.</p>
<p>We gleaned this information from our observations today when Benzinga's options scanner highlighted 15 extraordinary options activities for Palo Alto Networks. This level of activity is out of the ordinary.</p>
<p>The general mood among these heavyweight investors is divided, with 40% leaning bullish and 53% bearish. Among these notable options, 7 are puts, totaling $328,937, and 8 are calls, amounting to $548,107.</p>
<h3>Predicted Price Range</h3>
<p>After evaluating the trading volumes and Open Interest, it's evident that the major market movers are focusing on a price band between $320.0 and $370.0 for Palo Alto Networks, spanning the last three months.</p>
<h3>Insights into Volume &amp; Open Interest</h3>
<p>In today's trading context, the average open interest for options of Palo Alto Networks stands at 598.82, with a total volume reaching 1,700.00. The accompanying chart delineates the progression of both call and put option volume and open interest for high-value trades in Palo Alto Networks, situated within the strike price corridor from $320.0 to $370.0, throughout the last 30 days.</p>
<h3>Palo Alto Networks Call and Put Volume: 30-Day Overview</h3>
<p><img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1726070428_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" /></p>
<h3>Noteworthy Options Activity:</h3>
<p>
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th><strong>Symbol</strong></th>
<th><strong>PUT/CALL</strong></th>
<th><strong>Trade Type</strong></th>
<th><strong>Sentiment</strong></th>
<th><strong>Exp. Date</strong></th>
<th><strong>Ask</strong></th>
<th><strong>Bid</strong></th>
<th><strong>Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Strike Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Total Trade Price</strong></th>
<th style="text-align: right;"><strong>Open Interest</strong></th>
<th style="text-align: right;"><strong>Volume</strong></th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>PANW</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>09/13/24</td>
<td>$9.5</td>
<td>$7.5</td>
<td>$7.5</td>
<td>$335.00</td>
<td>$150.0K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">610</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>PANW</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>12/20/24</td>
<td>$27.4</td>
<td>$27.05</td>
<td>$27.4</td>
<td>$340.00</td>
<td>$137.0K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">532</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">64</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>PANW</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>11/15/24</td>
<td>$27.65</td>
<td>$27.35</td>
<td>$27.65</td>
<td>$350.00</td>
<td>$60.8K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">361</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">30</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>PANW</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>09/20/24</td>
<td>$36.6</td>
<td>$34.9</td>
<td>$35.7</td>
<td>$370.00</td>
<td>$60.6K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">250</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">17</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>PANW</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>09/20/24</td>
<td>$4.55</td>
<td>$4.45</td>
<td>$4.5</td>
<td>$332.50</td>
<td>$59.9K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">69</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">133</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</p>
<h3>About Palo Alto Networks</h3>
<p>Palo Alto Networks is a platform-based cybersecurity vendor with product offerings covering network security, cloud security, and security operations. The California-based firm has more than 80,000 enterprise customers across the world, including more than three fourths of the Global 2000.</p>
<h3>Where Is Palo Alto Networks Standing Right Now?</h3>
<ul>
<li>Trading volume stands at 1,459,658, with PANW's price down by -3.08%, positioned at $336.89.</li>
<li>RSI indicators show the stock to be is currently neutral between overbought and oversold.</li>
<li>Earnings announcement expected in 63 days.</li>
</ul>
<h3>What Analysts Are Saying About Palo Alto Networks</h3>
<p>A total of 5 professional analysts have given their take on this stock in the last 30 days, setting an average price target of $380.0.</p>
<ul>
<li>Maintaining their stance, an analyst from Bernstein continues to hold a Outperform rating for Palo Alto Networks, targeting a price of $399. </li>
<li>Maintaining their stance, an analyst from Rosenblatt continues to hold a Neutral rating for Palo Alto Networks, targeting a price of $345. </li>
<li>Consistent in their evaluation, an analyst from Rosenblatt keeps a Neutral rating on Palo Alto Networks with a target price of $345. </li>
<li>Consistent in their evaluation, an analyst from Wells Fargo keeps a Overweight rating on Palo Alto Networks with a target price of $416. </li>
<li>Consistent in their evaluation, an analyst from BTIG keeps a Buy rating on Palo Alto Networks with a target price of $395. </li>
</ul>
<p>Options trading presents higher risks and potential rewards. Astute traders manage these risks by continually educating themselves, adapting their strategies, monitoring multiple indicators, and keeping a close eye on market movements. Stay informed about the latest Palo Alto Networks options trades with real-time alerts from <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a>.</p>


Check Out What Whales Are Doing With PANW

<p>Palo Alto Networks (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PANW#NASDAQ">PANW</a>) has outperformed the market over the past 10 years by 15.96% on an annualized basis producing an average annual return of 26.5%. Currently, Palo Alto Networks has a market capitalization of $111.85 billion. </p>
<p><strong>Buying $1000 In PANW:</strong> If an investor had bought $1000 of PANW stock 10 years ago, it would be worth <strong>$10,589.41</strong> today based on a price of $344.05 for PANW at the time of writing.</p>
<h3>Palo Alto Networks's Performance Over Last 10 Years</h3>
<p><img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1725917417_0.png" alt="comp_fig" /></p>
<p>Finally -- what's the point of all this? The key insight to take from this article is to note how much of a difference compounded returns can make in your cash growth over a period of time.</p>
<p><em>This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.</em></p>


Here's How Much $1000 Invested In Palo Alto Networks 10 Years Ago Would Be Worth Today

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BBAI

CLSK

COHR

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DMRC

DOCN

EMKR

EVLV

FICO

FLEX

GREE

GWRE

LINK

LTRX

NSYS

ONDS

PHUN

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Shares of companies within the broader tech sector are trading higher amid a rebound. Also, the sector may be moving higher in sympathy with Dell Technologies and Palantir Technologies' inclusion in the S&P 500 index.

<p>Financial giants have made a conspicuous bearish move on Palo Alto Networks. Our analysis of options history for Palo Alto Networks (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PANW#NASDAQ">PANW</a>) revealed 22 unusual trades.</p>
<p>Delving into the details, we found 36% of traders were bullish, while 59% showed bearish tendencies. Out of all the trades we spotted, 6 were puts, with a value of $1,034,771, and 16 were calls, valued at $693,750.</p>
<h3>What's The Price Target?</h3>
<p>Taking into account the Volume and Open Interest on these contracts, it appears that whales have been targeting a price range from $180.0 to $500.0 for Palo Alto Networks over the last 3 months. </p>
<h3>Volume &amp; Open Interest Trends</h3>
<p>Looking at the volume and open interest is an insightful way to conduct due diligence on a stock.</p>
<p>This data can help you track the liquidity and interest for Palo Alto Networks's options for a given strike price.</p>
<p>Below, we can observe the evolution of the volume and open interest of calls and puts, respectively, for all of Palo Alto Networks's whale activity within a strike price range from $180.0 to $500.0 in the last 30 days. </p>
<h3>Palo Alto Networks Option Volume And Open Interest Over Last 30 Days</h3>
<p><img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1725653778_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" /></p>
<h3>Significant Options Trades Detected:</h3>
<p>
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th><strong>Symbol</strong></th>
<th><strong>PUT/CALL</strong></th>
<th><strong>Trade Type</strong></th>
<th><strong>Sentiment</strong></th>
<th><strong>Exp. Date</strong></th>
<th><strong>Ask</strong></th>
<th><strong>Bid</strong></th>
<th><strong>Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Strike Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Total Trade Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Open Interest</strong></th>
<th style="text-align: right;"><strong>Volume</strong></th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>PANW</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>03/21/25</td>
<td>$26.8</td>
<td>$26.3</td>
<td>$26.5</td>
<td>$320.00</td>
<td>$795.0K</td>
<td>220</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">305</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>PANW</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$31.8</td>
<td>$31.5</td>
<td>$31.68</td>
<td>$340.00</td>
<td>$142.5K</td>
<td>823</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">51</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>PANW</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$10.6</td>
<td>$9.7</td>
<td>$10.6</td>
<td>$293.33</td>
<td>$75.2K</td>
<td>405</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">51</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>PANW</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$22.3</td>
<td>$21.4</td>
<td>$21.4</td>
<td>$420.00</td>
<td>$59.9K</td>
<td>309</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>PANW</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$42.0</td>
<td>$41.85</td>
<td>$42.0</td>
<td>$320.00</td>
<td>$58.8K</td>
<td>2.1K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">26</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</p>
<h3>About Palo Alto Networks</h3>
<p>Palo Alto Networks is a platform-based cybersecurity vendor with product offerings covering network security, cloud security, and security operations. The California-based firm has more than 80,000 enterprise customers across the world, including more than three fourths of the Global 2000.</p>
<p>After a thorough review of the options trading surrounding Palo Alto Networks, we move to examine the company in more detail. This includes an assessment of its current market status and performance.</p>
<h3>Where Is Palo Alto Networks Standing Right Now?</h3>
<ul>
<li>With a trading volume of 2,291,703, the price of PANW is down by -2.3%, reaching $335.82.</li>
<li>Current RSI values indicate that the stock is is currently neutral between overbought and oversold.</li>
<li>Next earnings report is scheduled for 68 days from now.</li>
</ul>
<p>Options trading presents higher risks and potential rewards. Astute traders manage these risks by continually educating themselves, adapting their strategies, monitoring multiple indicators, and keeping a close eye on market movements. Stay informed about the latest Palo Alto Networks options trades with real-time alerts from <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a>.</p>


Decoding Palo Alto Networks's Options Activity: What's the Big Picture?

<p>In the latest quarter, 46 analysts provided ratings for Palo Alto Networks (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PANW#NASDAQ">PANW</a>), showcasing a mix of bullish and bearish perspectives.</p>
<p>The table below provides a concise overview of recent ratings by analysts, offering insights into the changing sentiments over the past 30 days and drawing comparisons with the preceding months for a holistic perspective.</p>
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th></th>
<th style="text-align: right;"><strong>Bullish</strong></th>
<th style="text-align: right;"><strong>Somewhat Bullish</strong></th>
<th style="text-align: right;"><strong>Indifferent</strong></th>
<th style="text-align: right;"><strong>Somewhat Bearish</strong></th>
<th style="text-align: right;"><strong>Bearish</strong></th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><strong>Total Ratings</strong></td>
<td style="text-align: right;">12</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">26</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">8</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>Last 30D</strong></td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>1M Ago</strong></td>
<td style="text-align: right;">11</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">21</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">7</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>2M Ago</strong></td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td><strong>3M Ago</strong></td>
<td style="text-align: right;">1</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">3</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">0</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>The 12-month price targets, analyzed by analysts, offer insights with an average target of $379.74, a high estimate of $420.00, and a low estimate of $325.00. Witnessing a positive shift, the current average has risen by 7.58% from the previous average price target of $353.00.</p>
<p><img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1725548428_0_0.png" alt="price target chart" /></p>
<h2>Investigating Analyst Ratings: An Elaborate Study</h2>
<p>The analysis of recent analyst actions sheds light on the perception of Palo Alto Networks by financial experts. The following summary presents key analysts, their recent evaluations, and adjustments to ratings and price targets.</p>
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th>Analyst</th>
<th>Analyst Firm</th>
<th>Action Taken</th>
<th>Rating</th>
<th>Current Price Target</th>
<th>Prior Price Target</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>Shyam Patil</td>
<td>Susquehanna</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Positive</td>
<td>$420.00</td>
<td>$340.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Tal Liani</td>
<td>B of A Securities</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$400.00</td>
<td>$370.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Gabriela Borges</td>
<td>Goldman Sachs</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$376.00</td>
<td>$330.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nehal Chokshi</td>
<td>Northland Capital Markets</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Market Perform</td>
<td>$350.00</td>
<td>$275.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Fatima Boolani</td>
<td>Citigroup</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$395.00</td>
<td>$385.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Saket Kalia</td>
<td>Barclays</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$370.00</td>
<td>$350.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Brian Essex</td>
<td>JP Morgan</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$387.00</td>
<td>$365.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Anthony Hau</td>
<td>Truist Securities</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$400.00</td>
<td>$350.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Daniel Ives</td>
<td>Wedbush</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Outperform</td>
<td>$400.00</td>
<td>$375.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Shaul Eyal</td>
<td>TD Cowen</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$400.00</td>
<td>$350.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Patrick Colville</td>
<td>Scotiabank</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Sector Outperform</td>
<td>$400.00</td>
<td>$385.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Matthew Hedberg</td>
<td>RBC Capital</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Outperform</td>
<td>$410.00</td>
<td>$390.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Ittai Kidron</td>
<td>Oppenheimer</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Outperform</td>
<td>$410.00</td>
<td>$390.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Hamza Fodderwala</td>
<td>Morgan Stanley</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$390.00</td>
<td>$360.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Trevor Walsh</td>
<td>JMP Securities</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Market Outperform</td>
<td>$380.00</td>
<td>$380.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Eric Heath</td>
<td>Keybanc</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$400.00</td>
<td>$380.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Yi Fu Lee</td>
<td>Cantor Fitzgerald</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$400.00</td>
<td>$350.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Roger Boyd</td>
<td>UBS</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$355.00</td>
<td>$345.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Andrew Nowinski</td>
<td>Wells Fargo</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$416.00</td>
<td>$385.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Rudy Kessinger</td>
<td>DA Davidson</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$415.00</td>
<td>$380.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Gray Powell</td>
<td>BTIG</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$395.00</td>
<td>$366.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Adam Borg</td>
<td>Stifel</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$385.00</td>
<td>$360.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Catharine Trebnick</td>
<td>Rosenblatt</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$345.00</td>
<td>$345.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Peter Weed</td>
<td>Bernstein</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Outperform</td>
<td>$399.00</td>
<td>$364.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Shrenik Kothari</td>
<td>Baird</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Outperform</td>
<td>$385.00</td>
<td>$375.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Rob Owens</td>
<td>Piper Sandler</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$330.00</td>
<td>$300.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Alex Henderson</td>
<td>Needham</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$385.00</td>
<td>$345.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Peter Levine</td>
<td>Evercore ISI Group</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Outperform</td>
<td>$395.00</td>
<td>$385.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Brad Zelnick</td>
<td>Deutsche Bank</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$395.00</td>
<td>$330.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Keith Bachman</td>
<td>BMO Capital</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Outperform</td>
<td>$390.00</td>
<td>$334.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Yi Fu Lee</td>
<td>Cantor Fitzgerald</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$350.00</td>
<td>$350.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Catharine Trebnick</td>
<td>Rosenblatt</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$345.00</td>
<td>$300.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Daniel Ives</td>
<td>Wedbush</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Outperform</td>
<td>$375.00</td>
<td>$375.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Shrenik Kothari</td>
<td>Baird</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Outperform</td>
<td>$375.00</td>
<td>$360.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Brian Essex</td>
<td>JP Morgan</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$365.00</td>
<td>$340.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Fatima Boolani</td>
<td>Citigroup</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$385.00</td>
<td>$345.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Patrick Colville</td>
<td>Scotiabank</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Sector Outperform</td>
<td>$385.00</td>
<td>$337.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Roger Boyd</td>
<td>UBS</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$345.00</td>
<td>$300.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Adam Borg</td>
<td>Stifel</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$360.00</td>
<td>$330.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Saket Kalia</td>
<td>Barclays</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$350.00</td>
<td>$325.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Nina Marques</td>
<td>Redburn Atlantic</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Neutral</td>
<td>$325.00</td>
<td>$350.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Michael Turits</td>
<td>Keybanc</td>
<td>Lowers</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$380.00</td>
<td>$384.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Shrenik Kothari</td>
<td>Baird</td>
<td>Raises</td>
<td>Outperform</td>
<td>$360.00</td>
<td>$340.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Yi Fu Lee</td>
<td>Cantor Fitzgerald</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$350.00</td>
<td>$350.00</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Rudy Kessinger</td>
<td>DA Davidson</td>
<td>Announces</td>
<td>Buy</td>
<td>$380.00</td>
<td>-</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>Hamza Fodderwala</td>
<td>Morgan Stanley</td>
<td>Maintains</td>
<td>Overweight</td>
<td>$360.00</td>
<td>$360.00</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h3>Key Insights:</h3>
<ul>
<li><strong>Action Taken:</strong> Analysts respond to changes in market conditions and company performance, frequently updating their recommendations. Whether they 'Maintain', 'Raise' or 'Lower' their stance, it reflects their reaction to recent developments related to Palo Alto Networks. This information offers a snapshot of how analysts perceive the current state of the company.</li>
<li><strong>Rating:</strong> Offering a comprehensive view, analysts assess stocks qualitatively, spanning from 'Outperform' to 'Underperform'. These ratings convey expectations for the relative performance of Palo Alto Networks compared to the broader market.</li>
<li><strong>Price Targets:</strong> Delving into movements, analysts provide estimates for the future value of Palo Alto Networks's stock. This analysis reveals shifts in analysts' expectations over time.</li>
</ul>
<p>Considering these analyst evaluations in conjunction with other financial indicators can offer a comprehensive understanding of Palo Alto Networks's market position. Stay informed and make well-informed decisions with our Ratings Table.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/quote/PANW/analyst-ratings?utm_source=Benzinga Insights"><strong>Stay up to date on Palo Alto Networks analyst ratings.</strong></a></p>
<h2>Delving into Palo Alto Networks's Background</h2>
<p>Palo Alto Networks is a platform-based cybersecurity vendor with product offerings covering network security, cloud security, and security operations. The California-based firm has more than 80,000 enterprise customers across the world, including more than three fourths of the Global 2000.</p>
<h3>Unraveling the Financial Story of Palo Alto Networks</h3>
<p><strong>Market Capitalization:</strong> Indicating a reduced size compared to industry averages, the company's market capitalization poses unique challenges.</p>
<p><strong>Revenue Growth:</strong> Over the 3 months period, Palo Alto Networks showcased positive performance, achieving a revenue growth rate of <strong>10.31%</strong> as of 31 July, 2024. This reflects a substantial increase in the company's top-line earnings. In comparison to its industry peers, the company trails behind with a growth rate lower than the average among peers in the Information Technology sector.</p>
<p><strong>Net Margin:</strong> Palo Alto Networks's net margin is impressive, surpassing industry averages. With a net margin of <strong>16.34%,</strong> the company demonstrates strong profitability and effective cost management.</p>
<p><strong>Return on Equity (ROE):</strong> Palo Alto Networks's ROE is below industry standards, pointing towards difficulties in efficiently utilizing equity capital. With an ROE of <strong>7.42%,</strong> the company may encounter challenges in delivering satisfactory returns for shareholders.</p>
<p><strong>Return on Assets (ROA):</strong> Palo Alto Networks's ROA surpasses industry standards, highlighting the company's exceptional financial performance. With an impressive <strong>1.89%</strong> ROA, the company effectively utilizes its assets for optimal returns.</p>
<p><strong>Debt Management:</strong> Palo Alto Networks's debt-to-equity ratio is below industry norms, indicating a sound financial structure with a ratio of <strong>0.26</strong>.</p>
<h2>What Are Analyst Ratings?</h2>
<p>Analysts are specialists within banking and financial systems that typically report for specific stocks or within defined sectors. These people research company financial statements, sit in conference calls and meetings, and speak with relevant insiders to determine what are known as analyst ratings for stocks. Typically, analysts will rate each stock once a quarter. </p>
<p>Some analysts publish their predictions for metrics such as growth estimates, earnings, and revenue to provide additional guidance with their ratings. When using analyst ratings, it is important to keep in mind that stock and sector analysts are also human and are only offering their opinions to investors.</p>
<p>If you want to keep track of which analysts are outperforming others, you can view updated analyst ratings along withanalyst success scores in <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a>.</p>
<p>This article was generated by Benzinga's automated content engine and reviewed by an editor.</p>


Navigating 46 Analyst Ratings For Palo Alto Networks

<p>Susquehanna  analyst Shyam Patil   maintains Palo Alto Networks (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PANW#NASDAQ">PANW</a>) with a Positive and raises the price target from $340 to $420.</p>


Price Target

Susquehanna Maintains Positive on Palo Alto Networks, Raises Price Target to $420

<p><strong>BofA Securities</strong> analyst Tal Liani maintained a Buy rating on <strong>CrowdStrike Holdings, Inc </strong>(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CRWD#NASDAQ">CRWD</a>) with a price target of $365.</p>
<p>The price target reflects 17x Liani&#8217;s fiscal 2026 EV/Sales, which is a premium to high-growth Software as a Service (SaaS) peers, supported by CrowdStrike&#8217;s competitive solid positioning in endpoint security and long-term growth opportunities across Cloud security, log management, and identity protection.</p>
<p>In addition, the analyst flagged CrowdStrike&#8217;s higher growth profile and potential to take a meaningful share in new markets.</p>
<p>Liani recently hosted an investor meeting with Burt Podbere, CrowdStrike&#8217;s CFO, where management outlined customer retention plans, technology programs, and financial implications following the global outage.</p>
<p>The discussion focused on CrowdStrike incentives for the outage victims, including managing the recovery through discounting, bundling, free product offerings, flexible payment options, and extended contract terms.</p>
<p>Liani noted that delays in pipeline generation activities post-outage and heightened deal scrutiny across new and existing customers are extending sales cycles and impacting near-term growth trajectory.</p>
<p>The company is no longer guiding to free cash flow or net new annual recurring revenue&nbsp;(nnARR). Yet, the analyst noted the potential for near-term pressure related to muted upsell value, longer deal cycles, and recovery of outbound prospecting.</p>
<p>Management is still measuring the magnitude of the impact, and Liani expects further information related to the impact towards the end of the quarter.</p>
<p>While CrowdStrike&#8217;s discounting is temporary and aims to address customer retention risk, Liani noted that the general pricing environment is deteriorating. The two largest cybersecurity companies, <strong>Palo Alto Networks Inc</strong> (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PANW#NASDAQ">PANW</a>) and CrowdStrike, both now offer variable payment plans, which could drive long-term pricing headwinds should customers continue to push on discounting.</p>
<p><strong>Price Action:</strong> CRWD stock is trading lower by 1.51% to $262.58 at the last check on Wednesday.</p>
<p><em>Photo via shutterstock</em></p>


Reiteration

Tech

CRWD

CrowdStrike Faces Short-Term Challenges Like Pipeline Delays, Deal Scrutiny, and Discounting Pressure, Analyst Says

Shares of cybersecurity stocks are trading higher in sympathy with Crowdstrike, which reported strong Q2 earnings.

<p>The Nasdaq 100 closed lower by over 1% during Wednesday's session. Investors, meanwhile, focused on some notable insider trades.</p>
<p>When insiders sell shares, it could be a preplanned sale, or could indicate their concern in the company's prospects or that they view the stock as being overpriced. Insider sales should not be taken as the only indicator for making an investment or trading decision. At best, it can lend conviction to a selling decision.</p>
<p>Below is a look at a few recent notable insider sales. For more, check out <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/sec/insider-trades/">Benzinga&#8217;s insider transactions</a> platform.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Electronic Arts</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li><strong>The Trade: Electronic Arts Inc. </strong>(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/EA#NASDAQ">EA</a>) Chairman and CEO Andrew Wilson <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/sec/insider-trades/">sold a total of 2,500 shares</a> at an average price of $148.88. The insider received around $372,192 from selling those shares.</li>
<li><strong>What's Happening:</strong> On July 30, Electronic Arts reported first-quarter net bookings of $1.26 billion, down from $1.58 billion in last year's first quarter total of $1.58 billion, according to data from Benzinga Pro.</li>
<li><strong>What Electronic Arts Does:</strong> EA is one of the world&#8217;s largest third-party video game publishers and has transitioned from a console-based video game publisher to the one of the largest publishers on consoles, PC, and mobile.</li>
<li>Benzinga Pro's real-time newsfeed alerted to<a href="https://bzresearch.myclickfunnels.com/benzinga-pro-content-webinar-registration/?utm_source=BZprocontent082924&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1"> latest EA news. </a></li>
</ul>
<p><figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><a href="https://bzresearch.myclickfunnels.com/benzinga-pro-content-webinar-registration/?utm_source=BZprocontent082924&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="901" height="837" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/29044903/image-290.png" alt="" class="wp-image-520092" style="width:685px;height:auto" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/29044903/image-290.png 901w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/29044903/image-290-300x279.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/29044903/image-290-768x713.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 901px) 100vw, 901px" /></a></figure></p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Cisco Systems</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li><strong>The Trade: Cisco Systems, Inc. </strong>(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CSCO#NASDAQ">CSCO</a>) SVP &amp; Chief Acctg Officer Maria Victoria Wong <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/sec/insider-trades/">sold a total of 3,379 shares</a> at an average price of $50.36. The insider received around $170,166 from selling those shares.</li>
<li><strong>What's Happening:</strong> On Aug. 16, HSBC analyst Stephen Bersey upgraded Cisco from Hold to Buy and raised the price target from $46 to $58.</li>
<li><strong>What Cisco Does:</strong> Cisco Systems is the largest provider of networking equipment in the world and one of the largest software companies in the world.</li>
<li>Benzinga Pro&#8217;s charting tool helped identify the<a href="https://bzresearch.myclickfunnels.com/benzinga-pro-content-webinar-registration/?utm_source=BZprocontent082924&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1"> trend in CSCO stock. </a></li>
</ul>
<p><figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><a href="https://bzresearch.myclickfunnels.com/benzinga-pro-content-webinar-registration/?utm_source=BZprocontent082924&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="916" height="837" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/29045011/image-291.png" alt="" class="wp-image-520095" style="width:663px;height:auto" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/29045011/image-291.png 916w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/29045011/image-291-300x274.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/29045011/image-291-768x702.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 916px) 100vw, 916px" /></a></figure></p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Target</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li><strong>The Trade: Target Corporation </strong>(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/TGT#NYSE">TGT</a>) Executive Officer Brian C Cornell <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/sec/insider-trades/">sold a total of 45,000 shares</a> at an average price of $158.67. The insider received around $7.1 million from selling those shares.</li>
<li><strong>What's Happening:</strong> On Aug. 21, Target reported better-than-expected second-quarter financial results and raised FY24 EPS outlook.</li>
<li><strong>What Target Does:</strong> Target serves as the nation&#8217;s sixth-largest retailer, with its strategy predicated on delivering a gratifying in-store shopping experience and a wide product assortment of trendy apparel, home goods, and household essentials at competitive prices. </li>
<li>Benzinga Pro&#8217;s signals feature notified of a potential <a href="https://bzresearch.myclickfunnels.com/benzinga-pro-content-webinar-registration/?utm_source=BZprocontent082924&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1">breakout in TGT shares.  </a></li>
</ul>
<p><figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><a href="https://bzresearch.myclickfunnels.com/benzinga-pro-content-webinar-registration/?utm_source=BZprocontent082924&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="901" height="843" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/29045103/image-292.png" alt="" class="wp-image-520097" style="width:658px;height:auto" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/29045103/image-292.png 901w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/29045103/image-292-300x281.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/29045103/image-292-768x719.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 901px) 100vw, 901px" /></a></figure></p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Palo Alto Networks</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li><strong>The Trade: Palo Alto Networks, Inc. </strong>(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PANW#NASDAQ">PANW</a>) Director Mary Pat McCarthy <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/sec/insider-trades/">sold a total of 10,000 shares</a> at an average price of $348.49. The insider received around $3.5 million from selling those shares.</li>
<li><strong>What's Happening:</strong> On Aug. 19, Palo Alto reported fourth-quarter revenue of $2.189 billion, beating the consensus estimate of $2.162 billion.</li>
<li><strong>What Palo Alto Networks Does:</strong> Palo Alto Networks is a platform-based cybersecurity vendor with product offerings covering network security, cloud security, and security operations.</li>
<li>Benzinga Pro&#8217;s earnings calendar was used in monitoring upcoming <a href="https://bzresearch.myclickfunnels.com/benzinga-pro-content-webinar-registration/?utm_source=BZprocontent082924&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1">PANW&#8217;s earnings reports. </a></li>
</ul>
<p><figure class="wp-block-image size-full is-resized"><a href="https://bzresearch.myclickfunnels.com/benzinga-pro-content-webinar-registration/?utm_source=BZprocontent082924&amp;t=be2bearmibe3na1"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="855" height="822" src="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/29045227/image-293.png" alt="" class="wp-image-520102" style="width:608px;height:auto" srcset="https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/29045227/image-293.png 855w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/29045227/image-293-300x288.png 300w,https://editorial-assets.benzinga.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/29045227/image-293-768x738.png 768w" sizes="(max-width: 855px) 100vw, 855px" /></a></figure></p>
<p><strong>Check This Out: </strong></p>
<ul>
<li><strong><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/news/24/08/40600017/wall-streets-most-accurate-analysts-spotlight-on-3-materials-stocks-delivering-high-dividend-yields">Wall Street&#8217;s Most Accurate Analysts Spotlight On 3 Materials Stocks Delivering High-Dividend Yields</a></strong></li>
</ul>


Short Ideas

Insider Trades

Pre-Market Outlook

CSCO

Cisco, Target And 2 Other Stocks Executives Are Selling

<p>Deep-pocketed investors have adopted a bearish approach towards Palo Alto Networks (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PANW#NASDAQ">PANW</a>), and it's something market players shouldn't ignore. Our tracking of public options records at Benzinga unveiled this significant move today. The identity of these investors remains unknown, but such a substantial move in PANW usually suggests something big is about to happen.</p>
<p>We gleaned this information from our observations today when Benzinga's options scanner highlighted 14 extraordinary options activities for Palo Alto Networks. This level of activity is out of the ordinary.</p>
<p>The general mood among these heavyweight investors is divided, with 21% leaning bullish and 42% bearish. Among these notable options, 4 are puts, totaling $190,925, and 10 are calls, amounting to $620,062.</p>
<h3>What's The Price Target?</h3>
<p>Based on the trading activity, it appears that the significant investors are aiming for a price territory stretching from $195.0 to $540.0 for Palo Alto Networks over the recent three months. </p>
<h3>Volume &amp; Open Interest Development</h3>
<p>Examining the volume and open interest provides crucial insights into stock research. This information is key in gauging liquidity and interest levels for Palo Alto Networks's options at certain strike prices. Below, we present a snapshot of the trends in volume and open interest for calls and puts across Palo Alto Networks's significant trades, within a strike price range of $195.0 to $540.0, over the past month.</p>
<h3>Palo Alto Networks Call and Put Volume: 30-Day Overview</h3>
<p><img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1724867146_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" /></p>
<h3>Significant Options Trades Detected:</h3>
<p>
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th><strong>Symbol</strong></th>
<th><strong>PUT/CALL</strong></th>
<th><strong>Trade Type</strong></th>
<th><strong>Sentiment</strong></th>
<th><strong>Exp. Date</strong></th>
<th><strong>Ask</strong></th>
<th><strong>Bid</strong></th>
<th><strong>Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Strike Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Total Trade Price</strong></th>
<th style="text-align: right;"><strong>Open Interest</strong></th>
<th style="text-align: right;"><strong>Volume</strong></th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>PANW</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$16.1</td>
<td>$15.75</td>
<td>$15.75</td>
<td>$390.00</td>
<td>$146.6K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">883</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">104</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>PANW</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>12/20/24</td>
<td>$57.9</td>
<td>$56.05</td>
<td>$57.0</td>
<td>$310.00</td>
<td>$114.0K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">123</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">20</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>PANW</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>06/20/25</td>
<td>$10.8</td>
<td>$10.25</td>
<td>$10.25</td>
<td>$260.00</td>
<td>$106.6K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">437</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">118</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>PANW</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>NEUTRAL</td>
<td>12/20/24</td>
<td>$25.3</td>
<td>$25.0</td>
<td>$25.15</td>
<td>$360.00</td>
<td>$65.3K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">463</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">26</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>PANW</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>09/19/25</td>
<td>$11.2</td>
<td>$10.5</td>
<td>$10.5</td>
<td>$540.00</td>
<td>$52.5K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">89</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">50</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</p>
<h3>About Palo Alto Networks</h3>
<p>Palo Alto Networks is a platform-based cybersecurity vendor with product offerings covering network security, cloud security, and security operations. The California-based firm has more than 80,000 enterprise customers across the world, including more than three fourths of the Global 2000.</p>
<p>Following our analysis of the options activities associated with Palo Alto Networks, we pivot to a closer look at the company's own performance.</p>
<h3>Present Market Standing of Palo Alto Networks</h3>
<ul>
<li>Currently trading with a volume of 692,022, the PANW's price is up by 0.09%, now at $350.49. </li>
<li>RSI readings suggest the stock is currently may be approaching overbought.</li>
<li>Anticipated earnings release is in 77 days.</li>
</ul>
<h3>Expert Opinions on Palo Alto Networks</h3>
<p>In the last month, 5 experts released ratings on this stock with an average target price of $387.2.</p>
<ul>
<li>An analyst from TD Cowen persists with their Buy rating on Palo Alto Networks, maintaining a target price of $400. </li>
<li>Maintaining their stance, an analyst from Barclays continues to hold a Overweight rating for Palo Alto Networks, targeting a price of $350. </li>
<li>In a cautious move, an analyst from Wedbush downgraded its rating to Outperform, setting a price target of $375. </li>
<li>Consistent in their evaluation, an analyst from BTIG keeps a Buy rating on Palo Alto Networks with a target price of $395. </li>
<li>Maintaining their stance, an analyst from Wells Fargo continues to hold a Overweight rating for Palo Alto Networks, targeting a price of $416. </li>
</ul>
<p>Trading options involves greater risks but also offers the potential for higher profits. Savvy traders mitigate these risks through ongoing education, strategic trade adjustments, utilizing various indicators, and staying attuned to market dynamics. Keep up with the latest options trades for Palo Alto Networks with <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a> for real-time alerts.</p>


<p>U.S. stocks settled higher on Friday with the Dow Jones index surging more than 450 points, following comments from Fed Chair Jerome Powell at the Jackson Hole Economic Symposium.</p>
<p>Wall Street analysts make new stock picks on a daily basis. Unfortunately for investors, not all analysts have particularly impressive track records at predicting market movements. Even when it comes to one single stock, analyst ratings and price targets can vary widely, leaving investors confused about which analyst&#8217;s opinion to trust.</p>
<p>Benzinga&#8217;s Analyst Ratings API is a collection of the highest-quality stock ratings curated by the Benzinga news desk via direct partnerships with major sell-side banks. Benzinga displays overnight ratings changes on a daily basis three hours prior to the U.S. equity market opening. Data specialists at investment dashboard provider Toggle.ai recently uncovered that the analyst insights Benzinga Pro subscribers and Benzinga readers regularly receive can successfully be used as trading indicators to outperform the stock market.</p>
<p><strong>Top Analyst Picks:</strong> Fortunately, any Benzinga reader can access the latest analyst ratings on the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-ratings/analyst-color/22/09/28888638/exclusive-study-finds-benzinga-analyst-ratings-data-yields-market-beating-strategie">Analyst Stock Ratings</a> page. One of the ways traders can sort through Benzinga&#8217;s extensive database of analyst ratings is by analyst accuracy. Here&#8217;s a look at the most recent stock picks from each of the five most accurate Wall Street analysts, according to Benzinga <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/analyst-stock-ratings">Analyst Stock</a> Ratings.</p>
<p><strong>Analyst</strong>: Zachary Fadem</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Analyst Firm</strong>: Wells Fargo</li>
<li><strong>Ratings Accuracy</strong>: 89%</li>
<li><strong>Latest Rating</strong>: Maintained an Overweight rating on O&#8217;Reilly Automotive, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ORLY#NASDAQ">ORLY</a>) and raised the price target from $1,200 to $1,250 on Aug. 22. This analyst sees around 12% upside in the stock.</li>
<li><strong>Recent News:</strong> On July 24, O'Reilly Automotive reported worse-than-expected second-quarter financial results and issued FY24 guidance below estimates.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Analyst</strong>: William Stein</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Analyst Firm</strong>: Truist Securities</li>
<li><strong>Ratings Accuracy</strong>: 89%</li>
<li><strong>Latest Rating</strong>: Maintained a Buy rating on Analog Devices, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ADI#NASDAQ">ADI</a>) and slashed the price target from $275 to $266 on Aug. 22. This analyst sees around 16% upside in the stock.</li>
<li><strong>Recent News</strong>: On Aug. 21, Analog Devices posted better-than-expected third-quarter financial results.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Analyst</strong>: Justin Post</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Analyst Firm</strong>: B of A Securities</li>
<li><strong>Ratings Accuracy</strong>: 87%</li>
<li><strong>Latest Rating</strong>: Maintained a Buy rating on Uber Technologies, Inc. (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/UBER#NYSE">UBER</a>) with a price target of $88 on Aug. 23. This analyst sees around 18% upside in the stock.</li>
<li><strong>Recent News</strong>: On Aug. 22, the company announced a multiyear strategic partnership to bring Cruise autonomous vehicles to the Uber platform.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Analyst</strong>: Trevor Walsh</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Analyst Firm</strong>: JMP Securities</li>
<li><strong>Ratings Accuracy</strong>: 87%</li>
<li><strong>Latest Rating</strong>: Reiterated a Market Outperform rating on Palo Alto Networks, Inc. (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PANW#NASDAQ">PANW</a>) with a price target of $380 on Aug. 20. This analyst sees about 8% gain in the stock.</li>
<li><strong>Recent News</strong>: On Aug. 19, Palo Alto Networks posted better-than-expected fourth-quarter financial results, issued strong guidance and authorized an additional $500 million for repurchase.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Analyst</strong>: Hans Mesesmann</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Analyst Firm</strong>: Rosenblatt</li>
<li><strong>Ratings Accuracy</strong>: 86%</li>
<li><strong>Latest Rating</strong>: Maintained a Buy rating on NVIDIA Corporation (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NVDA#NASDAQ">NVDA</a>) with a price target of $200 on Aug. 22. This analyst sees around 55% upside in the stock.</li>
<li><strong>Recent News</strong>: Nvidia is expected to announce its latest quarterly results on Wednesday, Aug. 28.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Read More: </strong></p>
<ul>
<li><strong><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/trading-ideas/long-ideas/24/08/40526660/jim-cramer-praises-l3harris-technologies-says-intel-is-getting-whacked-by-amd-i-much-pre">Jim Cramer Praises L3Harris Technologies, Says Intel Is &#8216;Getting Whacked&#8217; By AMD: &#8216;I Much Prefer&#8230;&#8217;</a></strong></li>
</ul>


NVDA

ORLY

UBER

This Analyst With 86% Accuracy Rate Sees Around 55% Upside In Nvidia - Here Are 5 Stock Picks For Last Week From Wall Street's Most Accurate Analysts

<p><strong>CrowdStrike Holdings, Inc.</strong> (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/crwd#NASDAQ">CRWD</a>) is scheduled to release second-quarter fiscal 2025 results on Jun 4.</p>
<p>For the second quarter, CrowdStrike projects total revenues between $958.3 million and $961.2 million. The Zacks Consensus Estimate for revenues is pegged at $958.7 million, which indicates growth of 31% from the year-ago quarter&#39;s level.</p>
<p>CrowdStrike anticipates non-GAAP earnings between 98 cents and 99 cents per share. The consensus mark for the bottom line has been revised a penny downward to 98 cents per share over the past 30 days and indicates 32.4% year-over-year growth.</p>
<p><img alt="Zacks Investment Research" src="https://staticx-tuner.zacks.com/images/articles/charts/b9/75218.jpg?v=839382956" style="height:305px; width:600px" /></p>
<p>Image Source: Zacks Investment Research</p>
<p>The company has consistently demonstrated impressive financial performance, underpinned by its subscription-based revenue model. Its earnings surpassed the Zacks Consensus Estimate in each of the trailing four quarters, delivering an average surprise of 15.8%.</p>
<div class="chart_embed">
<h3>CrowdStrike Price and EPS Surprise</h3>
<p><img alt="CrowdStrike Price and EPS Surprise" src="https://staticx-tuner.zacks.com/images/charts/60/1724420872.png" style="height:305px; width:600px" title="" /></p>
<p>CrowdStrike price-eps-surprise | CrowdStrike Quote</p>
<p>As CrowdStrike approaches its second-quarter earnings announcement, let&#39;s see if it is the right time to invest in this stock.</p>
</div>
<h2>Factors Shaping Upcoming Results</h2>
<p>CrowdStrike&#39;s second-quarter results are likely to reflect the benefits of the continued solid demand for its products, given the healthy environment of the global security market. The increasing number of people logging into employers&#39; networks has triggered a greater need for security and might have spurred the demand for CRWD&#39;s products in the fiscal second quarter. A strong pipeline of deals indicates the same.</p>
<p>Stellar revenue growth in subscriptions might have contributed significantly to the second-quarter top line. Further, the increasing number of net new subscription customers may have acted as a tailwind.</p>
<p>The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Subscription revenues is pegged at $910 million, indicating a year-over-year improvement of 31.9%. Revenues from the Professional Services segment are likely to increase 18.7% year over year to $49.5 million in the fourth quarter.</p>
<p>Moreover, CrowdStrike&#39;s collaboration with Amazon Web Services (&quot;AWS&quot;) is an upside, benefiting the company from its products&#39; availability on the AWS platform. The expansion in the volume of transactions through Amazon&#39;s AWS Marketplace, growth in co-selling opportunities with AWS salesforce and the uptake of AWS service integrations are likely to have contributed to CRWD&#39;s earnings in the to-be-reported quarter.</p>
<p>However, elevated expenses for enhancing sales and marketing capabilities and increased investments in research and development are likely to have weighed on the company&#39;s fiscal second-quarter bottom line.</p>
<h2>Price Performance &amp; Valuation</h2>
<p>Year to date, shares of CrowdStrike have risen 4.8%, underperforming the Zacks Internet &ndash; Software industry&#39;s growth of 14.6%. The CRWD stock has also underperformed its peers, including <strong>Palo Alto Networks</strong> (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/panw#NASDAQ">PANW</a>) and <strong>Fortinet</strong> (NASDAQ: <a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ftnt#NASDAQ">FTNT</a>), which have registered a rise of 18.5% and 27.2%, respectively, YTD.</p>
<h3>YTD Price Return Performance</h3>
<p><img alt="Zacks Investment Research" src="https://staticx-tuner.zacks.com/images/articles/charts/9e/75219.jpg?v=1021083623" style="height:305px; width:600px" /></p>
<p>Image Source: Zacks Investment Research</p>
<p>Now, let&#39;s look at the value CrowdStrike offers investors at the current levels. CRWD stock is trading at a premium with a forward 12-month P/S of 14.47X compared with the industry&#39;s 2.57X, reflecting a stretched valuation.</p>
<p><img alt="Zacks Investment Research" src="https://staticx-tuner.zacks.com/images/articles/charts/ea/75220.jpg?v=1563281137" style="height:305px; width:600px" /></p>
<p>Image Source: Zacks Investment Research</p>
<h2>Investment Thesis</h2>
<p>Although CrowdStrike has experienced impressive growth since its IPO, recent quarterly reports have shown a deceleration in its growth rate. The company&#39;s revenue growth, while still robust, is not as explosive as in previous years.</p>
<p>CrowdStrike had enjoyed more than 50% year-over-year top-line growth till fiscal 2023. However, the growth rate decelerated in fiscal 2024 to 36%. The current Zacks Consensus Estimate for fiscal 2025 and 2026 suggests that the top-line growth will further decelerate to 30% and 24%, respectively.</p>
<p>This slowdown is partly due to the law of large numbers &mdash; as companies grow larger, maintaining high percentage growth rates becomes increasingly difficult. Additionally, heightened competition from established players and new entrants in the cybersecurity space could put further pressure on CrowdStrike&#39;s growth.</p>
<p>Also, CrowdStrike&#39;s near-term prospects might be hurt by softening IT spending as enterprises are postponing their large tech investment plans due to macroeconomic uncertainties and geopolitical issues.</p>
<p>Additionally, the global IT outage incident in July 2024 has highlighted significant vulnerabilities within CrowdStrike&#39;s operational processes, casting a shadow over its reputation. A faulty content update for its Falcon platform had impacted around 8.5 million Microsoft&nbsp;Windows devices and led to widespread system malfunctions across various industries, including banks, airports, hospitals and government agencies. While CRWD&#39;s swift acknowledgment and rectification efforts were commendable, the scale of the impact has left a lasting impression on clients and investors alike.</p>
<h2>Conclusion</h2>
<p>Given the challenges CrowdStrike is facing, it might be time for investors to reconsider their position. The company&#39;s slowing sales growth is a serious concern that cannot be ignored. The faulty Falcon update has exposed critical vulnerabilities in the company&#39;s operations, raising questions about its ability to maintain client trust and market dominance. Moreover, this Zacks Rank #5 (Strong Sell) company&#39;s high valuation multiples add another layer of risk.</p>
<p>In light of the reputation damage from the global IT outage and slowing sales growth concerns, it is prudent for investors to stay away from CrowdStrike stock for now. The combination of operational risks and high valuation makes CRWD stock a risky proposition.</p>
<p><a href="https://www.zacks.com/stock/news/2326397/should-you-buy-sell-or-hold-crowdstrike-crwd-ahead-of-q2-earnings?cid=CS-BENZ-FT-analyst_blog|most_popular_stocks-2326397">To read this article on Zacks.com click here.</a></p>


Earnings

Earnings Beats

Large Cap

Should You Buy, Sell or Hold CrowdStrike Ahead of Q2 Earnings?

<p>In a pivotal address at the Jackson Hole Symposium in Wyoming, Federal Reserve Chair <strong>Jerome Powell</strong> signaled a forthcoming shift in interest rates Friday, stating &#8220;the time has come <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/etfs/sector-etfs/24/08/40529209/jerome-powell-time-has-come-for-interest-rate-cuts-cooling-in-labor-market-unmistakable">for policy to adjust.&#8221;</a></p>
<p>His remarks suggest the Fed is on the cusp of easing interest rates, yet Powell emphasized the importance of data-driven decisions, carefully avoiding any commitment to specific timing or <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/government/24/08/40532173/powell-removes-any-uncertainty-around-september-rate-cuts-in-jackson-hole-speech-economists">the magnitude of those cuts.</a></p>
<p>As the Fed becomes more confident in inflation gradually returning to its 2% target, Powell emphasized the need to closely monitor the labor market, which he said is showing "unmistakable" signs of cooling.</p>
<p>The anticipation of impending interest rate cuts extended a decline in the dollar, which tumbled to its lowest level in over a year. This shift in policy direction invigorated interest rate-sensitive markets, with small-cap stocks, real estate and regional banks surging as clear <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/08/40530908/powells-rate-cut-signal-triggers-small-cap-rally-gold-makes-record-highs-dollar-tumbles-7-etfs-o">beneficiaries following Powell&#8217;s remarks.</a></p>
<p>Simultaneously, gold — which historically moves inversely to interest rates and the dollar — soared to a record high, surpassing $2,500 per ounce.</p>
<p>All major U.S. equity indices ended the week in positive territory, with the S&amp;P 500, represented by the <strong>SPDR S&amp;P 500 ETF Trust</strong> (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/SPY#NYSE">SPY</a>), rising 1.3%. Small-cap stocks significantly outperformed their large-cap counterparts, as the <strong>iShares Russell 2000 ETF</strong> (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/IWM#NYSE">IWM</a>) surged 3.4% for the week.</p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Election-Proof Stocks</h3>
<p>Market strategist<strong> Jay Woods</strong> said certain stocks, especially in the defense and cybersecurity sectors, could perform well regardless of whether <strong>Donald Trump</strong> or <strong>Kamala Harris</strong> wins the presidency. Notable mentions include <strong>Boeing Company</strong> (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BA#NYSE">BA</a>), <strong>Lockheed Martin Corp.</strong> (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LMT#NYSE">LMT</a>) and <strong>Palo Alto Networks Inc. </strong>(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PANW#NASDAQ">PANW</a>), alongside Woods' recommended exchange traded <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/etfs/sector-etfs/24/08/40515453/exclusive-trump-or-harris-12-stocks-2-etfs-could-win-no-matter-whos-president-says-market-strate">funds for diversified exposure.</a></p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Job Growth Revised</h3>
<p>The U.S. economy added 818,000 fewer jobs than initially reported from April 2023 to March 2024. This significant revision increases expectations for interest rate cuts, as it suggests the labor market is <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/economics/macro-economic-events/24/08/40487711/us-economy-adds-818-000-fewer-jobs-than-initially-reported-urgency-for-interest-r">weaker than previously thought.</a></p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">EV Ambitions Scaled</h3>
<p><strong>Ford Motor Co.</strong> (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/F#NYSE">F</a>), <strong>General Motors Co.</strong> (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GM#NYSE">GM</a>) and <strong>Stellantis N.V.</strong> (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/STLA#NYSE">STLA</a>) are reducing their electric vehicle investments due to weakening demand. Ford canceled a planned electric SUV this week, while GM and Stellantis delayed new EV projects, signaling a strategic shift <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/24/08/40518874/ford-gm-stellantis-cooling-to-once-hot-ev-sector-as-demand-wanes">in uncertain market conditions.</a></p>
<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Gold Bars Shine</h3>
<p>With gold prices cracking $2,500 per ounce, a standard 400-troy-ounce gold bar is now valued at $1 million. The surge is driven by expectations of Federal Reserve interest rate cuts and a weakening U.S. dollar, boosting <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/markets/equities/24/08/40469009/a-bar-of-pure-gold-is-now-worth-1-million-what-can-it-buy-you">gold&#8217;s appeal to investors.</a></p>
<p><em>Photo created using artificial intelligence via MidJourney. </em></p>


Equities

Macro Economic Events

Mid Cap

Broad U.S. Equity ETFs

Commodities

Forex

Small Cap

Econ #s

Economics

Federal Reserve

ETFs

STLA

Fed's Powell Hints At Policy Shifts, Dollar Plunges, Gold Rallies As Investors Flock To Rate-Cut Winners: This Week In The Markets

<p>Deep-pocketed investors have adopted a bullish approach towards Palo Alto Networks (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PANW#NASDAQ">PANW</a>), and it's something market players shouldn't ignore. Our tracking of public options records at Benzinga unveiled this significant move today. The identity of these investors remains unknown, but such a substantial move in PANW usually suggests something big is about to happen.</p>
<p>We gleaned this information from our observations today when Benzinga's options scanner highlighted 26 extraordinary options activities for Palo Alto Networks. This level of activity is out of the ordinary.</p>
<p>The general mood among these heavyweight investors is divided, with 53% leaning bullish and 46% bearish. Among these notable options, 8 are puts, totaling $314,966, and 18 are calls, amounting to $981,895.</p>
<h3>Projected Price Targets</h3>
<p>Analyzing the Volume and Open Interest in these contracts, it seems that the big players have been eyeing a price window from $250.0 to $400.0 for Palo Alto Networks during the past quarter. </p>
<h3>Volume &amp; Open Interest Trends</h3>
<p>In today's trading context, the average open interest for options of Palo Alto Networks stands at 849.5, with a total volume reaching 2,640.00. The accompanying chart delineates the progression of both call and put option volume and open interest for high-value trades in Palo Alto Networks, situated within the strike price corridor from $250.0 to $400.0, throughout the last 30 days.</p>
<h3>Palo Alto Networks 30-Day Option Volume &amp; Interest Snapshot</h3>
<p><img src="https://www.benzinga.com/files/images/story/2024/1724430726_0.png" alt="Options Call Chart" /></p>
<h3>Noteworthy Options Activity:</h3>
<p>
<table>
<thead>
<tr>
<th><strong>Symbol</strong></th>
<th><strong>PUT/CALL</strong></th>
<th><strong>Trade Type</strong></th>
<th><strong>Sentiment</strong></th>
<th><strong>Exp. Date</strong></th>
<th><strong>Ask</strong></th>
<th><strong>Bid</strong></th>
<th><strong>Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Strike Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Total Trade Price</strong></th>
<th><strong>Open Interest</strong></th>
<th style="text-align: right;"><strong>Volume</strong></th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>PANW</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$15.7</td>
<td>$15.45</td>
<td>$15.5</td>
<td>$400.00</td>
<td>$204.4K</td>
<td>2.3K</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">133</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>PANW</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>SWEEP</td>
<td>BEARISH</td>
<td>09/20/24</td>
<td>$12.2</td>
<td>$12.05</td>
<td>$12.05</td>
<td>$347.50</td>
<td>$119.3K</td>
<td>53</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">104</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>PANW</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>12/18/26</td>
<td>$144.65</td>
<td>$140.9</td>
<td>$143.19</td>
<td>$250.00</td>
<td>$71.5K</td>
<td>66</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>PANW</td>
<td>CALL</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/16/26</td>
<td>$68.7</td>
<td>$68.2</td>
<td>$68.7</td>
<td>$350.00</td>
<td>$68.7K</td>
<td>365</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">17</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>PANW</td>
<td>PUT</td>
<td>TRADE</td>
<td>BULLISH</td>
<td>01/17/25</td>
<td>$24.15</td>
<td>$23.8</td>
<td>$23.8</td>
<td>$340.00</td>
<td>$59.5K</td>
<td>338</td>
<td style="text-align: right;">37</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
</p>
<h3>About Palo Alto Networks</h3>
<p>Palo Alto Networks is a platform-based cybersecurity vendor with product offerings covering network security, cloud security, and security operations. The California-based firm has more than 80,000 enterprise customers across the world, including more than three fourths of the Global 2000.</p>
<p>Following our analysis of the options activities associated with Palo Alto Networks, we pivot to a closer look at the company's own performance.</p>
<h3>Where Is Palo Alto Networks Standing Right Now?</h3>
<ul>
<li>Currently trading with a volume of 1,313,380, the PANW's price is down by -0.45%, now at $347.92. </li>
<li>RSI readings suggest the stock is currently may be approaching overbought.</li>
<li>Anticipated earnings release is in 82 days.</li>
</ul>
<h3>What The Experts Say On Palo Alto Networks</h3>
<p>5 market experts have recently issued ratings for this stock, with a consensus target price of $389.0.</p>
<ul>
<li>Maintaining their stance, an analyst from Stifel continues to hold a Buy rating for Palo Alto Networks, targeting a price of $385. </li>
<li>An analyst from B of A Securities has decided to maintain their Neutral rating on Palo Alto Networks, which currently sits at a price target of $400. </li>
<li>Consistent in their evaluation, an analyst from Deutsche Bank keeps a Buy rating on Palo Alto Networks with a target price of $395. </li>
<li>Maintaining their stance, an analyst from Truist Securities continues to hold a Buy rating for Palo Alto Networks, targeting a price of $400. </li>
<li>Consistent in their evaluation, an analyst from JP Morgan keeps a Overweight rating on Palo Alto Networks with a target price of $365. </li>
</ul>
<p>Trading options involves greater risks but also offers the potential for higher profits. Savvy traders mitigate these risks through ongoing education, strategic trade adjustments, utilizing various indicators, and staying attuned to market dynamics. Keep up with the latest options trades for Palo Alto Networks with <a href="https://benzinga.grsm.io/register174">Benzinga Pro</a> for real-time alerts.</p>


<p>Market strategist<strong> Jay Woods</strong> has identified two sectors and several investment opportunities that could thrive regardless of whether <strong>Donald Trump</strong> or <strong>Kamala Harris</strong> wins <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/2024-election">the 2024 election.</a></p>
<p><strong>Defense Stocks: </strong>Woods, who is the <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/topic/jay-woods">Chief Global Strategist</a> for <strong>Freedom Capital Markets</strong>, sees the defense sector as one that could benefit no matter who wins the upcoming election.</p>
<p>Woods said that <strong>Boeing Co</strong> (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/BA#NYSE">BA</a>) is one defense stock that has held back the sector and hurt ETFs like the<strong> iShares US Aerospace &amp; Defense ETF</strong> (BATS:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/ITA#BATS">ITA</a>).</p>
<p>The market strategist named stocks like <strong>Northrop Grumman</strong> (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NOC#NYSE">NOC</a>), <strong>General Dynamics</strong> (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GD#NYSE">GD</a>),<strong> Lockheed Martin </strong>(NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/LMT#NYSE">LMT</a>), <strong>RTX Corp</strong> (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/RTX#NYSE">RTX</a>) and <strong>GE Aerospace</strong> (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/GE#NYSE">GE</a>) as companies to watch in the defense sector.</p>
<p>"These stocks are our best in class and they're making new highs," Woods said.</p>
<p>On GE Aerospace, Woods said this is a good example of what splitting up companies can do, noting it could be a potential precursor to what could be in store for Alphabet Inc.</p>
<p>"GE had done nothing. It was dead money for years."</p>
<p>Woods said the sum of the parts was greater than the whole for GE.</p>
<p>The defense sector could continue to benefit from geopolitical concerns and a lot of bad things happening in the world, Woods said.</p>
<p>"I think you&#8217;ve got to watch this sector closely."</p>
<p><strong>Read Also: <a href="https://www.benzinga.com/etfs/broad-u-s-equity-etfs/24/07/40025773/bad-news-ahead-for-investors-august-september-are-worst-two-months-over-past-20-years-">Bad News Ahead For Investors? August, September Are Worst Two Months Over Past 20 Years — But 2024 Could Be Different</a></strong></p>
<p><strong>Cybersecurity Stocks:</strong> Woods said the cybersecurity sector could also benefit no matter who wins the 2024 election.</p>
<p>"We know how important that is," Woods said of cybersecurity.</p>
<p>Woods named <strong>CrowdStrike Holdings</strong> (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CRWD#NASDAQ">CRWD</a>) as the cybersecurity stock that has weighed down the sector and ETFs like the <strong>Amplify Cybersecurity ETF</strong> (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/HACK#NYSE">HACK</a>).</p>
<p>The market strategist said it is going to take time for CrowdStrike to come back, and investors might not want to jump back in.</p>
<p>Other names in the cybersecurity sector Woods likes are <strong>Fortinet </strong>(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/FTNT#NASDAQ">FTNT</a>), <strong>Check Point Software Technologies </strong>(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CHKP#NASDAQ">CHKP</a>), <strong>Palo Alto Networks Inc </strong>(NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/PANW#NASDAQ">PANW</a>), <strong>Cloudflare Inc</strong> (NYSE:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/NET#NYSE">NET</a>) and <strong>Cisco Systems</strong> (NASDAQ:<a class="ticker" href="https://www.benzinga.com/stock/CSCO#NASDAQ">CSCO</a>).</p>
<p>Palo Alto Networks was highlighted as a stock with a strong long-term trend. Woods noted that while the stock has been hit hard on earnings in the past, it&#8217;s poised for a comeback in the near future.</p>
<p>Woods mentioned that naming Cisco often catches people off guard, given the stock has done nothing over the last 20 years. However, in the short term, Woods said that the stock appears to have broken out of a downtrend.</p>
<p>An acquisition of Splunk is still being digested by Cisco, but could help in its cybersecurity efforts, Woods said.</p>
<p>"I think they're starting to reap the benefits of that. Cisco to me looks like something's changed. It's worth taking a flyer."</p>
<p>Woods said Cisco isn't a popular recommendation, but there could be something there.</p>
<p>"If you like boring, I give you Cisco."</p>
<p>The market strategist said picking individual stocks could outperform the overall cybersecurity sector, but the CrowdStrike drop also shows the impact one bad stock can have on a portfolio.</p>
<p>"I think the safest way to play cyber is the ETFs."</p>
<p><figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><br />
<div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="Investing In Defense Stocks: ETFs or Individual Names?" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/NTM2J1dfM6M?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div>
<p></p></figure></p>
<p>Watch the full PreMarketPrep episode <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vGXosi2hWTQ">here</a>.</p>
<p><strong>Read Next: </strong></p>
<ul>
<li><strong><a href="https://www.benzinga.com/exclusives/24/07/39886192/exclusive-tesla-an-elon-musk-and-a-technology-story-first-ev-story-last-market-strategist-explains-w">EXCLUSIVE: Tesla &#8216;An Elon Musk And A Technology Story First, EV Story Last&#8217; — Market Strategist Explains Why To Buy The Stock</a></strong></li>
</ul>
<p>Photo created with images from Benzinga and artificial intelligence using Midjourney.</p>


Sector ETFs

Exclusives

CHKP

HACK

iShares Dow Jones US Aerospace & Defense Index Fund

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Shaul Eyal, an analyst from TD Cowen, maintained the Buy rating on Palo Alto Networks (PANW – Research Report). The associated price target remains...

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Stocks that are expected to benefit from lower fed funds rate and a softer labor market

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